Kapil Sibal Elected As President of The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA).

Kapil Sibal, the eminent lawyer and former Union Minister, has been elected as the President of the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA), marking a significant milestone in his illustrious legal career. This isn't Sibal's first tenure as president; his previous successful stint speaks volumes of his credibility and leadership within the legal fraternity. During his inaugural speech, Sibal reflected on his journey, reminiscing about his humble beginnings as a young lawyer entering the portals of the court without any clients. He emphasized the importance of hard work and incremental progress, stating, "It was in 1973 I remembered when I enter the portals of this Court; a young man with no senior, a young man with no client, so if some people feel that I don't understand what young man go through, I think they should think twice. With the dint of hard work, we came up the ladder, and remember the only way to rise anywhere is step by step, not through an elevator”.

Sibal also underscored the fundamental duty of a lawyer, emphasizing the solemn responsibility to protect the rule of law and the constitution, regardless of political affiliations. He urged his fellow lawyers to uphold the values of the legal profession and stand firm against any violation of the law or the constitution.

He said, "What is the fundamental duty of a lawyer? Why are we here? We are here because it is a duty to protect the rule of law, to protect the constitution, as has been given to us by our forefathers. And what is that involves? It involves to recognize each one of you not by your affiliation; political or otherwise, but by the black coat that you wear! That's the only symbol of a lawyer”

furthermore, he emphasizes the duty that is bestowed on the lawyers by waring the black coats (becoming lawyers) and said
What does black mean that he will stand up for every violation of the law, he'll stand up for every citizen of this country who violates the law. Stand up for the values of the constitution, to stand up to the court if the court does not recognize the values that we have cherished over the years. That is the fundamental duty of a lawyer and I would like each one of you to realize that."

Sibal's inspiring words resonate deeply with the legal community, reaffirming his commitment to upholding justice and the principles of democracy as the newly elected president of the SCBA.

Born on 8 August 1948 in Jalandhar, Punjab, Kapil Sibal's family migrated to India during the partition in 1947. In 1964, he relocated to Delhi, where he pursued his education. After completing his schooling at St. John's High School, he enrolled at St. Stephen's College, Delhi, for his B.A. Sibal earned his LL.B. degree from the prestigious Faculty of Law, University of Delhi, and later obtained an M.A. in history from St. Stephen's College.

Around 1973, Mr. Sibal joined the bar association, embarking on his journey in the legal profession. Despite qualifying for the Indian Administrative Services in 1973 and receiving an appointment offer, he chose to establish his own law practice, declining the prestigious opportunity. His dedication to law led him to Harvard Law School, where he pursued an LL.M., completing it in 1977.

Recognized for his legal prowess, Sibal was designated as a senior lawyer in 1983, solidifying his reputation in the legal fraternity. From there, he transitioned into a multifaceted career in law and politics, eventually serving in various ministries in the Congress-led UPA government, including the Ministry of Science & Technology, the Ministry of Human Resource Development, the Ministry of Communications & IT, and finally, the Ministry of Law & Justice.

Throughout his illustrious career, Sibal has been a driving force behind significant legal and social reforms in India. Notable among his contributions are:

Education Reforms: Sibal played a pivotal role in formulating and implementing the Right to Education Act, aimed at providing free and compulsory education to all children aged 6 to 14 years in India. Additionally, he led efforts to reform the education system to enhance its quality and accessibility.

Telecommunications Reforms: As the Minister of Communications & Information Technology, Sibal led reforms in the telecommunications sector, promoting liberalization, competition, and expanding access to telecom services across India.

Legal Reforms: Sibal advocated for changes in laws and regulations to strengthen the justice system and safeguard citizens' rights. He focused on issues such as judicial reforms, access to justice, and human rights.

Information Technology: Sibal emphasized leveraging technology for innovation and economic growth. He advocated for policies to boost the information technology sector and increase access to digital services, particularly in rural areas.